401.467.2300 
Associate Attorney
Charles J. Vucci, the lead workers’ compensation attorney for Gemma Law Associates, Inc., empathizes with his clients’ initial hesitancy in reaching out to him. He understands the fear of potential job repercussions for seeking legal assistance. However, Charles is quick to reassure them that the law protects their rights to compensation in case of work-related injuries and strictly prohibits any form of retaliation from employers.
“They think that if they talk to an attorney, it’s going to cost them their jobs,” Charles says. “But the truth is that the law entitles you to compensation if you are injured at work, and the law strictly prohibits an employer from retaliating against you.”
Once clients overcome this initial apprehension, they discover they are in capable hands with Charles. His expertise and experience in workers’ compensation law become evident as he guides them through the legal process, advocating for their rights and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
DEDICATED TO HELPING RHODE ISLAND’S INJURED WORKERS
Throughout his legal career, Charles has shown unwavering dedication to assisting Rhode Island workers who have suffered from work-related injuries. His focus has been on securing comprehensive benefits for his clients, encompassing various aspects such as medical care, compensation for lost wages, and support for both temporary and permanent disabilities resulting from workplace incidents. Charles’ commitment to advocating for the rights of injured workers underscores his passion for ensuring they receive the assistance and compensation they rightfully deserve.
“People want to make sure they are getting paid when they are out of work,” Charles says. “They need someone to make sure they’re getting their checks, and that they’re getting their medical treatment or reimbursement for their prescriptions. That’s why I’m here – to take those headaches away from them while they are recovering.”
In some cases, medical providers may require authorization from the workers’ compensation insurance carrier before examining or treating an injured worker. Thus, posing a challenge for those seeking timely medical attention after a workplace injury. Charles understands the complexities involved in navigating the workers’ compensation system, including issues related to medical treatment authorization.
With his expertise and experience, Charles skillfully advocates for his clients’ rights to timely medical care. He diligently secures necessary authorizations, ensuring injured workers receive prompt treatment without delays, thus aiding their recovery process.
“Nothing in Rhode Island workers’ compensation law says that the medical providers need that authorization before they see you,” Charles says. “That’s a disagreement that often happens, and you need an attorney to protect your rights in that situation.”
Charles emphasizes that Gemma Law Associates, Inc., offers free legal representation to workers’ compensation claimants. This means that clients can seek Charles’s expertise and guidance without any upfront costs or fees. Instead, if a workers’ compensation claim settles for a lump sum, the firm is entitled to receive an attorney fee from that settlement.
This fee arrangement ensures that injured workers have access to experienced legal representation without worrying about financial barriers. This commitment also demonstrates the firm’s dedication to supporting workers in their pursuit of justice. Beyond legal advocacy, Charles strives to alleviate any financial burdens associated with seeking legal assistance during difficult times, emphasizing his clients’ welfare above all else.
WORKERS SEEKING BENEFITS SHOULD GET EXPERIENCED LEGAL HELP
Charles strongly encourages injured workers to receive legal advice and representation.
“The employer is being guided by legal counsel who considers the best interests of their client first – not the interests of the injured worker,” he says.
“Employees have that same right to legal counsel. So, if injured employees don’t exercise that right, they are only receiving information from one source, the employer’s representative, and that information may be right or wrong. They have no way of finding out unless they have their own attorney. Without an attorney, any questions they have are answered by people who do not have their best interests considered.”
Charles also believes that his clients deserve a workers’ compensation attorney who will provide thorough and straightforward guidance throughout their cases. He understands the importance of clear communication and transparency in legal matters, especially when dealing with issues as significant as work-related injuries and compensation claims.
MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION EXPERIENCE
Charles J. Vucci has a wealth of experience in the field of workers’ compensation law, having practiced in this area since he became a licensed attorney in 1987. His extensive tenure in the legal profession has provided him with comprehensive knowledge and insight into the nuances of workers’ compensation law. Interestingly, Charles began his career with an initial stint as a workers’ compensation defense attorney. This experience on the defense side likely provides him with a unique perspective and understanding of how insurance companies and employers approach workers’ compensation claims. It also allows him to anticipate potential strategies and challenges that may arise during the claims process.
Charles is a native of Warwick, Rhode Island. His academic journey began at Providence College, where he graduated cum laude with a degree in political science in 1983. This educational background likely provided him with a strong foundation in critical thinking and analysis, skills that are invaluable in his legal practice.
Following his undergraduate studies, Charles pursued his passion for law by earning his law degree from the Wake Forest University School of Law in 1987. This educational experience equipped him with the legal knowledge and expertise necessary to excel in the field of workers’ compensation law.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Charles finds joy in activities outside the realm of law. He enjoys reading, which likely allows him to continue expanding his knowledge and staying informed about developments in various areas of interest. Additionally, his love for working outdoors suggests a connection to nature and a desire for relaxation and rejuvenation away from the demands of his legal practice.
Overall, Charles’s diverse experiences and interests contribute to his well-rounded approach to life and law, enriching his ability to connect with clients and serve their needs effectively.
EDUCATION
- Providence College (B.A., cum laude, 1983)
- Wake Forest University School of Law (J.D., 1987)
BAR ADMISSIONS
- Rhode Island (1987)
- U.S. District Court, District of Rhode Island (1987)
- U.S. Court of Appeals, First Circuit (1989)
PRACTICE AREAS
MEMBERSHIP
- Rhode Island Bar Association
- Rhode Island Association for Justice, Workers’ Compensation Section
- Rhode Island Workers’ Compensation Bench Bar Committee